Not only will you need building experience for that F4U kit, but you will need a lot of flying experience.

My suggestion would be something in the order of a low-wing mildly aerobatic plane, sometimes considered a low-wing trainer. My second was a Goldberg Tiger 60. It was bigger than a 40 size plane, had the low wing setup, flew and landed somewhat like a trainer, but was also aerobatic enough to give you those thrills of learning the capabilities of the aircraft.

The Tiger is a trike gear (nose wheel) setup. Another alternative is the Four Star 60. Same type of aircraft, but it is a tail dragger, and is a tad bit more aerobatic.

Whatever you decide to get, check out the flying characteristics of that particular kit (Tower Hobbies gives a brief description of the aircraft they sell, ie.: beginner, intermediate, advanced) so stick with something no more than intermediate. Fly it with an instructor with a buddy box for the first flight.

Good luck.

CGr